STUDY OF HIGH-ENTROPY ALLOYS AND THEIR APPLICATION FIELDS

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the current research directions in high-entropy alloys (HEAs), encompassing their fundamental aspects, processing routes, strengthening mechanisms, and application fields. The primary mechanisms governing the formation of the microstructure and phase composition in HEAs are analyzed, emphasizing the central role of high configurational entropy in stabilizing single-phase solid solutions and enabling the development of unique properties that surpass those of conventional alloys. The review systematically consolidates four primary research domains: the thermodynamic principles of phase formation, microstructural transformations, mechanical and functional properties, and the development of novel alloy classes and alloying strategies. Particular emphasis is placed on a comparative analysis of various HEA manufacturing methods, ranging from traditional melting and casting technologies—such as vacuum induction melting, vacuum arc remelting, and electroslag remelting—to powder metallurgy routes and modern innovative additive approaches, including selective laser melting, electron beam melting, and laser cladding. The study demonstrates how these diverse synthesis techniques enable control over microstructure, grain size, and phase distribution. The strengthening mechanisms of HEAs are examined, including solid-solution strengthening and precipitation hardening by nanoparticles, as well as the creation of heterogeneous structures and defect-mediated strengthening. These mechanisms are shown to be key to achieving an optimal balance of strength and ductility. The principal areas of practical HEA application are outlined, spanning the aerospace and energy industries to biomedical devices, protective coatings, and catalytic applications. The growing importance of HEAs for service under extreme conditions is highlighted, owing to their exceptional thermal stability and corrosion resistance. In conclusion, the review identifies promising avenues for future research, which include the development of scalable production methods, material standardization, and the implementation of computational models for the accelerated design of new compositions. The necessity of an interdisciplinary approach that integrates advanced manufacturing technologies with fundamental research is underscored, pointing towards broad prospects for the successful implementation of HEAs in high-tech sectors of modern industry.